There’s a special kind of happiness that fills the kitchen when the scent of warm banana bread starts wafting through the air. Imagine combining that comforting aroma with a tropical twist! I stumbled upon this Coconut Banana Bread recipe on a rainy afternoon when I was yearning for something new yet familiar, and it has since become a staple in my home. Each slice is an irresistible blend of sweet, ripe bananas and the delightful chewiness of shredded coconut, perfectly spiced with cardamom and enriched with creamy coconut milk.
Whether you’re looking for a mouthwatering breakfast treat, a quick snack to savor with your afternoon tea, or even a unique dessert to impress friends, this recipe checks all the boxes. The best part? You can adjust the size of the loaf to fit your cravings—mini loaves for an individual treat or one large loaf to share during cozy gatherings. Trust me, once you taste this tropical delight, you’ll be hooked! So let’s dive in and create a loaf of Coconut Banana Bread that’s sure to brighten your day!
Why is Coconut Banana Bread a Must-Try?
Irresistible aroma: The moment you bake this bread, your kitchen will fill with a warm, tropical scent that beckons everyone to gather.
Unique twist: This isn’t just any banana bread; the addition of coconut and cardamom creates an exciting flavor profile that elevates the classic.
Perfect for any occasion: Whether it’s breakfast, an afternoon snack, or a dessert, this versatile bread fits seamlessly into your day.
Customizable: With options for different loaf sizes, you can whip up mini loaves or a large one, perfect for sharing!
Healthy indulgence: Packed with potassium and medium-chain fatty acids, this recipe offers a delightful treat without the guilt.
Get ready to fall in love with this tropical delight!
Coconut Banana Bread Ingredients
For the Batter
- 3 large eggs – Provides structure and moisture; substitute with flaxseed meal mixed with water for a vegan option.
- ½ cup coconut oil, melted – Adds rich flavor and moisture; alternatively, use unsalted butter or neutral oil if not available.
- 2 very ripe bananas, mashed – Contributes natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas work best for optimal flavor.
- ¾ cup organic sugar – Sweetens the bread; substitute with coconut sugar or honey for lower glycemic options.
- 1 teaspoon baking powder – Acts as a leavening agent to help the bread rise; ensure it’s fresh for best results.
- ¾ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor and balances sweetness; use kosher or sea salt for a more refined taste.
- 2 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure; for a gluten-free version, consider a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend.
- 7 ounces shredded coconut (reserving ½ cup for topping) – Adds texture and tropical flavor; use unsweetened for a healthier option.
- ½ cup coconut milk – Introduces creaminess and enhances coconut flavor; substitute with almond milk for a dairy-free option.
- ½ teaspoon cardamom – Adds a warm, aromatic flavor; can be replaced with cinnamon for a different spice profile.
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract – Enhances sweetness and flavor depth; use pure extract for best quality.
- 1 teaspoon coconut extract (optional) – Strengthens coconut flavor; omit if unavailable.
For the Topping
- ½ cup reserved shredded coconut – Adds a delightful crunch on top; mix with sugar for extra sweetness.
How to Make Coconut Banana Bread
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Preheat & Prepare Pan: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While it’s warming up, prepare your baking pan(s) to ensure the bread releases easily after baking.
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Mix Wet Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted coconut oil, mashed bananas, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional coconut extract until you achieve a smooth consistency.
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Combine Dry Ingredients: Carefully add the baking powder, salt, all-purpose flour, and cardamom. Gently mix until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix or your bread might be dense.
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Fold in Coconut & Milk: Now, fold in the shredded coconut (except for the reserved amount) and coconut milk to keep that delightful moisture in your batter.
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Assemble & Top: Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved shredded coconut combined with a bit of sugar over the top for a lovely crunch.
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Bake: Transfer your pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour if using a large loaf. Adjust the time accordingly for smaller pans—check for doneness with a toothpick.
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Cool & Serve: Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.
Optional: Spread with a dollop of strawberry jam for an extra layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Coconut Banana Bread
Room Temperature: Store the bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days to maintain its moisture and flavor.
Fridge: If you want to extend its shelf life, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to a week.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze slices of your Coconut Banana Bread in a single layer on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 3 months.
Reheating: To enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm individual slices in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
Make Ahead Options
These Coconut Banana Bread options are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time on their meal prep! You can mix the wet ingredients (eggs, coconut oil, mashed bananas, sugar, vanilla, and coconut extract) up to 24 hours in advance and store them in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. The dry ingredients (flour, baking powder, salt, and cardamom) can also be pre-measured and kept in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to bake, simply combine the wet and dry ingredients, fold in the shredded coconut and coconut milk, then proceed with the baking instructions. With this prep strategy, your Coconut Banana Bread will be just as delicious, and you’ll save precious moments during a busy week!
Expert Tips for Coconut Banana Bread
- Ingredient Quality: Use ripe bananas for the best natural sweetness and moisture; overripe bananas are key to achieving that perfect flavor.
- Mix Gently: Avoid overmixing after adding dry ingredients to keep your Coconut Banana Bread tender and fluffy.
- Check for Doneness: Insert a toothpick into the center; it should come out clean or with a few crumbs for perfectly baked bread.
- Customize Texture: For added crunch, try substituting half of the shredded coconut with chopped nuts or chocolate chips.
- Storage Tips: Store your bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days, or refrigerate for longer freshness.
What to Serve with Coconut Banana Bread?
There’s nothing like pairing this tropical delight with delicious accompaniments to create a full and satisfying meal.
- Fresh Tropical Fruit: Serving slices with a medley of pineapple, mango, and papaya enhances the sunny tropical vibes and freshness.
- Coconut Yogurt: The creaminess of coconut yogurt complements the banana bread’s texture and adds a tangy flavor to balance the sweetness.
- Creamy Nut Butter: A spread of almond or cashew butter adds richness and protein, creating a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
- Cinnamon Sugar Topping: Sprinkle some cinnamon sugar on top of each slice to bring out the warmth of the cardamom for an extra touch of sweetness.
- Herbal Tea: A pot of ginger or chamomile tea pairs beautifully, accentuating the tropical notes while providing a comforting beverage option.
- Chocolate Drizzle: Drizzling melted dark chocolate over the slices introduces a luxurious touch that transforms the bread into an indulgent dessert.
- Ice Cream: Serve warm slices with a scoop of coconut or vanilla ice cream, turning your dish into a show-stopping dessert that everyone will love.
- Jam Selection: Offer a variety of jams like strawberry, passion fruit, or guava for guests to customize each slice with their favorite fruity flavor.
Enjoy these pairings as you savor the warmth and comfort of your delicious Coconut Banana Bread!
Coconut Banana Bread Variations
Feel free to get creative and tailor this delightful recipe to suit your tastes!
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Nutty Delight: Substitute half the shredded coconut with chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy twist. The combination of textures will elevate each slice!
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Choco-Banana Bliss: Fold in ½ cup of chocolate chips for an indulgent treat. This sweet addition pairs beautifully with the tropical coconut flavor.
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Fruit Infusion: Add ½ cup of dried fruits such as raisins or cranberries for a chewy contrast. Consider soaking them in warm water first for extra softness!
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Spicy Kick: Increase the warmth by adding ½ teaspoon of ground ginger. This not only enhances the tropical flair but also adds an intriguing layer of flavor.
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Zesty Citrus: Incorporate the zest of one orange or lemon for a refreshing brightness. It will beautifully complement the sweetness of the bananas!
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Herbal Essence: Mix in a tablespoon of finely chopped fresh mint or basil. This herbaceous twist will create a unique and refreshing flavor profile.
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Coconut Creaminess: Swap the coconut milk for whole milk or nut milk to change the texture while still keeping it rich. Each slice will remain moist and comforting!
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Gluten-Free Goodness: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend for a gluten-free option without sacrificing flavor or texture. Enjoy the same delightful experience for everyone!
Coconut Banana Bread Recipe FAQs
What kind of bananas should I use for Coconut Banana Bread?
Absolutely! You’ll want to use very ripe bananas, as they have the best natural sweetness and moisture. Look for bananas with plenty of brown spots or ones that are fully brown; they’re perfect for baking.
How long can I store Coconut Banana Bread?
You can store your Coconut Banana Bread in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days. If you’d like it to last longer, refrigerate it by wrapping it tightly in plastic wrap for up to a week.
Can I freeze Coconut Banana Bread?
Very! To freeze, slice the bread and lay each slice on a baking sheet in a single layer. Freeze until solid, then transfer the slices to a freezer bag for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw at room temperature or warm slices in the microwave for a few seconds until heated through.
What if my Coconut Banana Bread doesn’t rise properly?
If your bread doesn’t rise, check to ensure your baking powder is fresh, as old baking powder can lead to dense bread. Also, avoid overmixing the batter after adding dry ingredients—this can create a tough texture instead of a lovely, tender loaf.
Is Coconut Banana Bread safe for pets?
While the ingredients in Coconut Banana Bread are generally safe for human consumption, it’s best to avoid sharing it with pets, especially dogs, due to the sugar content. Keep it as a human treat and enjoy!
Can I adjust the sweetness of the Coconut Banana Bread?
You can! If you prefer a less sweet bread, you can reduce the amount of sugar used, and for a healthier alternative, you can substitute with coconut sugar or honey. Just remember that it may slightly alter the bread’s texture.
Delicious Coconut Banana Bread That Will Brighten Your Day
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and prepare your baking pan(s).
- In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the eggs, melted coconut oil, mashed bananas, sugar, vanilla extract, and optional coconut extract until you achieve a smooth consistency.
- Carefully add the baking powder, salt, all-purpose flour, and cardamom. Gently mix until everything is just combined; be careful not to overmix.
- Fold in the shredded coconut (except for the reserved amount) and coconut milk to keep that delightful moisture in your batter.
- Pour the batter into your prepared pan(s), smoothing the top with a spatula. Sprinkle the reserved shredded coconut combined with a bit of sugar over the top.
- Transfer your pan to the preheated oven and bake for about 1 hour if using a large loaf. Adjust the time accordingly for smaller pans—check for doneness with a toothpick.
- Once baked, let it cool in the pan for 10 minutes. Then carefully transfer it to a wire rack to cool completely before slicing.